Corsica Travel Guide

Corsican fish

2009-03-27T06:46:00.000-07:00

The sea around Corsica has been overfished for generations and the number of sea fishermen has vastly diminished. However there are now some signs of resuscitation and regional government is putting in hand some programmes to improve the situation - not surprisingly given our 1000 kilometres of coast! In Sardinia, our neighbour, for instance the number of fishermen has increased from 200-600 in ten years). There are just under 200 registered fishermen around the coast (in 2002) - down from 500 in 1987. They are organised in four associations (Calvi, Bastia, Porto Vecchio and Ajaccio). There are only 12 trawlers. In the Calvi region (from St Florent to Girolata), the catch has diminished by half in 20 years and the fishermen have to go to between 5-10 miles out to find their fish and langoustes. You may love the dolphins, but the fishermen don't - 80-100 kilos of fish go down each mammal's throat per day!

The fishing fleet of small boats is being modernised, but it maintains the old traditions. For the large part it is day fishing (or at least out and back within the 24 hours). Distribution is not highly organised and most of the catch is sold on the quayside, bought directly by restaurants or sold in a few daily markets or itinerant fishmongers. If you want to know more, send for an excellent leaflet A Pesca Corsa from the regional sea fishing organisation, CRPMEM de Corse, 16 Boulevard Danielle Casanova, 20000 Ajaccio.

Corsican cuisine

2009-03-04T12:55:00.000-08:00

The shortest way to describe it would be to say that it’s a mixture of Italian and French, but that leaves out the local peasant cooking traditions, not often practiced as high art. Traditionally Corsicans ate what the produced, reared or hunted. Staples of the Corsican diet apart from fruit and vegetables were chestnuts and chestnut flour, olive oil, sheep and goat cheese, cured meat and game. Wide varieties of wild herbs were, and still are, used. Calamint (nepita) was a staple and many others occur all over the island – rosemary, mint, sage, fennel, for example. Brocciu (a whey-based goat or sheep cheese produced from the autumn to the middle of summer) is the basis for many sweet and savoury dishes: doughnuts and pies, pasta fillings and sauces.

Bastia - Saint Roch Brotherhood Oratory

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Saint Roch Brotherhood Oratory dates from 1604. Inside, side walls offer panels hung with crimson damask, punctuated with golden pilasters. The motives in grisaille and foliages decorating the
vault are dated the 18 th century. The high altar altarpiece in polychrome marbles presents a painting of the 18 th century. The gallery shelters a splendid Italian walnut sculpted and gilded organ dating from 1750. Lastly, Saint Roch processional statue (celebrated on the 16 th of August) is exposed since the 18 th century in a recess on the left of the entrance. The vocation of Saint Roch brotherhood was to support condemned persons, assist ill people and bury the dead.

Climb the King of Aragon's Steps

2007-01-31T07:33:00.000-08:00

Escaliers du Roy d' Aragon (King of Aragon's Steps) - the 187 stairs that lead from the city level down to the ocean level - is an enjoyable self-guided tour. This a a definite must see when you visit Bonifacio. I would recommend this for early in the day because if you wait until the end of the day, you may be too tired to think about the 187 stairs. For 2.50 Euro, you will gain entrance to King of Aragon's Steps - or if you prefer, there is a pass for 6 Euros that gains you entrance to: Bastion de l' Etendard - Memorial, Palauzzu Publicu, Escaliers du Roy d' Aragon, Eglise St Domininque. If you visit the website I listed there is a link labeled 'Booklets' that will allow you to download free travel guides. They are very helpful full-color booklets.

Algajola

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(Balagne - NW) - Algajola is one of few seaside villages; it had animportant past under the Genoese and has an ancient small citadel. The beach, orrather beaches, are mainly coarse sand, but at the far northerly end (actually in thecommune of Aregno) is finer. It has water sports and some beach restaurants andsnack bars, as well as a few hotels with direct beach access. The climaticconditions are such that it's popular with fun boarders (short boards with whichstunts can be performed with a strong wind).

Corsican Beaches

2007-01-04T04:54:00.000-08:00

Almost everyone asks about beaches. Of course, it depends what you like: whatkind of sand, pebbles or rocks, beach restaurants (many or few) or not,accessibility, popularity, waves or not, life guards or not, shelving quickly orgently sloping, availability of water sports... So I have been resistant in the past tomake any comments. But now I have given in and so here's this list.Don't forget, though, that Corsica has 1000 kms of coast, hence this listing ishardly a gazetteer. Bear in mind that in the summer, only 25% of recognisedbeaches have life guards. This may be a factor for your choice. The SundayTimes list of Europe's Top 20 beaches includes three in Corsica, which may giveyou an indication of what's in store for you.

Corsica's beaches come in all shapes and sizes, and since there is such a hugedistance of coast accessible on foot, the walking is great too! A superb book hasrecently appeared – called Par les Chemins du Littoral Corse, by Alain Gautierand published by Albiana, a Corsican publisher. Though beautifully illustrated,this book is not very portable. However, the book gives 60 walks, detailled bytheir flora, fauna, access, architecture (Genoese towers for example) and itinerarywith exellent maps. Some of the walks are for serious walkers, but you can justpick section; you'll also get a good idea of the beaches.

If you want naturist beaches, try naturisme.com. There is a UK naturist holidayspecialist – Chalfont – they do holidays in Corsica. If you are interested in thework of the Conservatoire du Littoral in Corsica, then you can visit their website.

Central Corsica

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Corte - Venacais Niolo - Bozio - Asco

Between 1755 and 1769 Corte was known as Pascal Paoli’s capital of the “government of the Corsican nation” and it retains its position at the heart of Corsican history. The Corsican constitution was introduced here, a constitution that was admired by all of Europe of the Enlightenment. An historic town, Corte is also a young and lively city that plays host to more than 4000 students. Built on a rocky outcrop and overlooked by a citadel, the upper town is full of character with old houses on narrow cobbled streets. Set at the heart of the Regional Nature Park of Corsica, at the foot of some of the island’s highest peaks, Corte is the perfect starting point for many excursions such as energetic hiking trips, leisurely strolls and family walks. It is also the ideal place to practise outdoor sports and at just 40 minutes away from the closest beaches, Central Corsica opens the way to four different regions, each with their own particular identity. Ascu, which is a majestic valley with green waterfalls, where you can stop and bathe. It is also the name of a charming and picturesque village and a wild fauna reserve that is part of the Natura 2000 programme. Here you will come across many shepherds that produce a delicious variety of cheeses.

West of Corte, if you take the Scala di Regina, you will reach the Niolo region, a high plateau surrounded by Corsica’s highest peaks and villages. It is an ideal location for hiking along routes that will take you to Monte Cintu, along the Albertacce archaeological trail, the Lozzi nature trail and to many mountain lakes. It is land of the moufflon and the bearded vulture and if you fancy getting up to their heights, why not have a go at paragliding from Alturghja. A real adrenaline rush guaranteed.

East of Corte, you enter the area of Bozio that extends through Castagniccia. This is the homeland of Sambucucciu who led the first revolt against the lords in 1358. The Chapel trail will allow you to explore the many small Roman chapels that are dotted over this region of wild beauty. It is worth taking a look inside as they hide precious frescos, the colours of which will delight you. South of Corte, you enter the Venachese area, a high pastoral land covered with forests including those of Noceta/Rospigliani and Vizzanova famed for its umbrella pine trees. From here you can climb the Monte d’Oru (2389 m) or walk to the “cascade des Anglais” and see its natural pools. Fresh water aplenty! You can also go as far as Vivariu or the Pasciolo Fort from where you can enjoy commanding views of the Vecchin gorges. Lastly, why not explore the Verghellu valley?

Balagne

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Calvi - Ile Rousse - Galeria - Ostriconi

Often known as “the garden of Corsica” due to its fertile hills, Balagne is still known as “Saint Balagne” because of the large number of religious buildings there. A second adjective befitting of this place is “festive”, as everything that goes on here is an excuse for a party or festival. Firstly, at Calvi, the vast bay and 5 km beach, the line of mountains covered with snow until May, the walls of the citadel that go out into the sea - you could not dream of a more picturesque location. Tour round the ramparts of this proud city, about which the saying “Semper Fidelis” echoes its turbulent history. From here, walk down towards the port and marina, which is one of the most popular in Corsica and not far away from this point, you can put your towel out on the beach. The Île Rousse is the other seaside resort on this coast. It takes its name from the porphyry red rocks of the Isle of Pietra, just to the north of the town. As an ancient Roman trading post, its boom years date back to Pascal Paoli who built a port and ramparts to rival the sea trade between Gênes and Calvi. Its climate is so mild that it could be called the “Mild Isle”. Nothing is more pleasant than strolling through the shade of the 100-year old plane trees in the Place Paoli that is edged with date palms.

Inland, a large number of terraced villages provide the ideal destination for a variety of trips in a magnificent natural setting. At the foot of Montegrosso, explore Calenza which is set against a backdrop of olive groves, and provides the starting point for the GR 20 (long-distance hiking route). To see: the three villages of Montegrosso, Lunghignano and its oil mill, Cassano and its star-shaped square, Montemaggiore and its commanding views over the gulf of Calvi.

Sant’Antonio, a perfectly preserved medieval eyrie, Pigna, a lively craft centre and Corbara with its highly Baroque church of the Annunciation and convent that are still used as a place of retreat. On the heights of Balagne, you will find the region of Ghjunsani where you cannot fail to get away from it all in this place of wild nature. From Belgodere, that is perched on a rocky outcrop overhanging the Reginu valley, a hiking trail will take you to Olmi Capella. Vallica dominates the hillsides that are cut into terraces and set within a majestic mountain ridge. From Mausoleo and Pioggiola you can walk in a landscape dotted with Genoese bridges and chapels.
Further to the north, the Ostriconi valley falls into the sea creating a sumptuous white sandy beach. This region was Corsica’s former oil-producing area. Here you will discover many mills, the beautiful village of Lama that is overlooked by Mount Astu, and Pietralba set within its mountain ridge.

West Corsica

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Porto - Piana Cargese - region of Vico

With its coastline bordered by red granite cliffs that plunge into a sea of intense blue, the Gulf of Porto is well deserving of its classification by UNESCO as a “world heritage site”. It is a wonderful display of nature at its finest. To the north, lies the Girolata peninsula that can only be reached by foot or by boat. This magnificent landscape developed as a result of a volcanic eruption with steep cliffs, jagged peaks, lava flows that have set and formed tube shapes and stairs from where the fish eagles dive into the turquoise waters. To the north of this area lies the Scandola nature reserve that is Europe’s only land and sea reserve. Porto, a welcoming seaside resort is famous for its magnificent sunsets. Its square-shaped Genoese watchtower station has stood like a sentinel watching over the sea for the past four centuries. Overlooking the gulf is Ota, a typical Corsican village built on the side of the mountain. It forms the starting point of the Spelunca gorge trail, a veritable canyon whose grandiose aspect is enhanced further by the heady fragrance of the maquis. It is the ideal place for a family walk. Further south, you will see the “calanches” of Piana, amazing giant granite sculptures that change from orange to red according to the time of day. Here you will discover what are known as “taffoni”, which are natural caves that provided shelter for the first men on the island. The village of Piana is one of France’s most beautiful. Cargèse is famous for having given asylum to Greek refugees that sought refuge in Corsica in 1676. Its two churches, one Orthodox and the other Catholic, stand facing each other.

Sagone, a southern resort, will open up a completely new universe to you: in the space of a few minutes you can go from its sunny beaches into the coolness of the forests of the Regional Nature Park, where Vico, a region of shepherds, offers many excursions to lake Creno and the Liamone gorges.

Like a mountain that has been thrown into the sea, the hinterland of the gulf of Porto has remained enclosed for a many years but retains its authenticity and the traditional warmth of its welcome. Climbing towards the Verghio pass you will come across Evisa, a village that is surrounded by chestnut trees and borders the Aïtone forest whose immense umbrella pine trees hide wonderful rivers and natural pools. It is also the starting point for excursions to Tafunatu, Mount Cinto and the lakes of Nino and Creno.

The Region of Ajaccio

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Porticcio - South shore Bastelica - Bocagnano

Ajaccio is above all a unique and magical place. The town rises up from one of the most beautiful gulfs in the world, set against a backdrop of mountains that are often snow-capped until the spring. The beauty of the area is matched by the mildness of the climate and the “Ajaccian art of living”. Bright colours, radiant light, delicious cooking smells, smiles of the Ajaccian people – Ajaccio knows how to charm you from the moment you arrive. In the morning, you can soak up the atmosphere of the city by strolling around the old port, through the lively markets and through the narrow streets of the noble houses in the old town.

During the day, enjoy the pleasures of white sandy beaches where you can swim until the end of autumn. At night, after the ever-spectacular sunset that glows red and lights up the Iles Sanguinaires, the night will belong to you, with parties, singing and an atmosphere of conviviality. Why not explore the shores of the Gulf of Ajaccio? To the north, the coastal road passes in front of the Marinella beach, as feted by Tino Rossi, which will lead you to Parata point that is overlooked by a Genoese watchtower. A path leads you to the end of the point from where you can admire the Iles Sanguinaires and access the beaches of the large and small Capo di Feno. The turquoise waters and wild landscape make this place a favourite with surfers and it is sure to transport you miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life. To reach the southern coastline and the seaside resort of Porticcio, you can choose between the coastal road or a sea shuttle. With its three valleys, three rivers, overlooked by two Genoese watchtowers, the whole of the southern coast is a fantastic place to visit and an ideal spot for getting away from it all. It is a real haven of nature where coves and beaches of powdery sand abound and a place where you can practise all types of water sports. The hinterland begins just a stone’s throw from the beach with circuits that open up magnificent views to the mountains, valleys and villages.

Walks of all levels are to be found everywhere. Climb up the Prunelli valley and twenty minutes later you will find yourself in the heart of the deep chestnut tree forests of Bastelica, fatherland of Sampiero Corso. From Bastelica, climb towards the Ese plateau, and head to Bocognano that dominates the upper valley of the Gravona region, set in a majestic landscape of giant chestnut trees. Half an hour away by foot, you can explore the waterfall of Voile de la Mariée – an impressive waterfall of more than 70m in height.

The Grand Valinco

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Propriano - Taravo region of Sartène

Corsica’s origins can be traced to this small region with its large number of pre-historic sites and castle remains that date back to the time of the lords. The Valinco area provided a setting in the 19th century for many novels, including Prosper Mérimée’s “Colomba”. Propriano, a seaside resort set in the heart of the Gulf of Valinco, a gulf that is so deep and calm that it could be mistaken for a lake. The journey from the protected area of Roccapina and its beach of powdery sand overlooked by a rocky outcrop, passing through Tizzano, to the charming little fishing port of Porto Pollo, is an uninterrupted succession of coves and beaches, including the beautiful beach of Cupabia. A coastal path takes you to Tizzano through the maquis from Campomoro.

A veritable valley of green, the Taravo Valley has for a long time lived to the rhythm of the harvests, grape harvests and chestnut picking. With a large number of historic sites and other features of interest, the hinterland is a region full of activity. The trail of old craft traditions at Olmeto and the “Route des Sens Authentiques” will take you on a journey to explore pipe, knife and ceramic factories as well as specialities of local produce. Everywhere you go you are sure to come across thermal springs with for example the hot springs at Baracci that have been taken since the days of antiquity. There is also the Roman pool at Caldane, and the waters of Guitera and Tacana. Between two pools of freshwater and sea water, dozens of activities are on offer including, climbing, river fishing, horse trekking, and other excursions, not forgetting that the region is also the starting point of two walking trails: the Mare a Mare Sud and the Mare e Monti Nord.

From Propriano, go as far as Sartène, “the most authentically Corsican town” as Prosper Mérimée wrote. As capital of the Terra dei Signori, the high facades of the houses with their thick walls stand like ramparts where the echoes of history are heard. On Good Friday, the old town provides the setting for the impressive Catenacciu procession during which a citizen disguised in a red hooded robe re-enacts Christ’s struggle to get the cross to Calvary. His feet are wrapped in chains and he carries a cross weighing more than 30 kilos. The event takes place in atmosphere of fervour and passion.

South Corsica

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Bonifacio - Porto-Vecchio - Lecci Sainte Lucie de Porto-Vecchio, Alta Rocca - Solenzara

Here, in the southern reaches of the island, the Corsican mountains sweep down to the sea in an apotheosis of beaches, creeks and islets. The third largest town in Corsica, Porto-Vecchio attracts yachtsmen with its roads well protected in a cirque of cork oak-fringed hills. You won’t be able to resist the lure of the beaches, some of which, like Palombaggia and Santa Giulia, rank among the most beautiful in Corsica.

The beaches are only a few minutes from the Ospedale massif, an ideal spot for walking enthusiasts, with the cooling shade of its pine and cork oak forests skirting the lake. Further west, you come to the imposing wooded massif of the Alta Rocca from which emerge the summits of the Aiguilles de Bavella. At sunset these seven jagged mountain pinnacles are lit up in a blaze of glory, and whatever angle you see them from, they are a truly breathtaking sight. From the Col de Bavella, you will make your way to the Polischellu waterfalls or perhaps to the curious “trou de la bombe” piercing the rock wall, before dropping down towards the Côte des Nacres via the Solenzara Valley. Situated at the mouth of the river, Solenzara is a pretty little marina which makes a pleasant port of call in the summer months. The region is perfect for canyoning, abseiling down waterfalls, rock climbing, hunting and fishing. Your southerly journey will take you to the Gulf of Pinarellu and the beautiful beaches of Saint Cyprien and Cala Rosa.

At the southernmost tip of the island, perched atop awesome white cliffs battered by the waves, stands Bonifacio – the most visited of the exceptional sites of Corsica. There is a distinctly mediaeval air to the upper town which was founded in 833 by Boniface, Count of Tuscany, and has had a colourful, tumultuous history. But Bonifacio is also a safe, eminently accessible port attracting seagoing pleasure craft in large numbers. Here, where the wind blows some 250 days a year, fun-boarders are in their element. The best spots (but keep it to yourself!) are: Figari, La Tonnara, Piantarella, Santa Manza and Balistra. Sailing boats and their crews will find a whole series of calanques (deep narrow creeks) and gulfs in which to drop anchor along this highly indented coastline. Submarine life is every bit as extraordinary with gorgonian, sponge, grouper and coral all abounding. And why not spend a day on the Lavezzi Isles, just four kilometres off the coast? This maze of rocky islands surrounded by tropical blue water enjoys the protective status of an international marine park.

East Coast

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Costa Serena - Costa Verde - Castagniccia

If you can see vast beaches in front of you and behind, stand hills and mountainsthat are cool and shady: you are on the east coast. And, since you are on holiday,why not start by laying your towel down on the powdery sand of the Costa Serenaor the Costa Verde? From the Moriani-Plage at Aléria to Ghisonaccia, beaches stretchfor miles bordered by sumptuous pine forests. A favourite with holidaymakers, theregion’s resorts blend in nicely with the natural surroundings.
The first visitors to this area were the Phoenicians that founded Aléria in the 6thcentury BC. Occupied since then by the Etruscans, the Carthaginians and theRomans, the town was finally razed to the ground by the Vandals in the 5thcentury. Trace its history through the archaeological site here and in the Museumof Aléria that is located in the Fort of Matra, and includes a collection ofmagnificent Greek ceramics.

In this region of vast open spaces, you will enjoy seaside outings and swimmingin the many rivers that flow through the region. Here, all the joys ofthe seaside, sunshine and gastronomy abound. The large farming concernsproduce juicy shaddocks (type of grapefruit), clementines, kiwis, avocadosand quality wines, while aquaculture activities will fill your plate with a widevariety of seafood and fish.

Turning inland now, an ocean of forests awaits you. The origin ofthese forests dates back to 1584 when the Genoese organised thesystematic planting of precious tree species, in particular chestnuttrees. As the region was highly populated at that time, the orchardbecame a vast forest of chestnut trees giving its face and name tothe area known as Castagniccia today (castagna – chestnut).A land of popular revolts (Pascal Paoli was proclaimed general-in-chiefof the Corsican nation in 1755), Castagniccia will charm you with itscharacter, its stone-roofed houses that all have their own “rataghju”(chestnut drying room) and its flamboyant autumnal colours.

The region covers the three “pieves” (ancient parishes) of Alesani, Orezzaand Ampugnani, all of which are an ideal place for forest walksfrom where emerge, like the light of a lighthouse across the sea,the sound of the peeling bells of the Baroque churches.Further south is the region of Ghisoni, where you can see a pretty16th-century village and also enjoy walks that are full of things todiscover in one of Europe’s most beautiful umbrella pine forests.From Ghisoni, head to the resort of Renoso where, in the winter, you can skiin a vast and fully-preserved natural setting. It is the starting point for climbingMont Renoso (2352m), one of the highest peaks in Corsica. Make the most ofyour climb to visit the sheep barns of the Pozzi, these peat bogs that punctuatethe bright green moss with blue patches.

The Region of Bastia

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Cap Corse - Nebbio - Saint Florent

Touring around the “côte toscane”, Bastia has all the charm of old Mediterranean towns with its narrow streets flanked by tall buildings whose understated elegance is enhanced by painted shutters.

Founded in 1378 by the Genoese that turned it into the island’s capital, its name comes from the ‘bastille’ or fortress that dominates the town. It is a lively place and one where you will enjoy strolling about at will; Place Saint Nicolas and the Place du Marché are both favourites with the local townsfolk and are always full of vibrancy and colour. From here you can tour round the old port by walking down rue Napoleon, looking at the shops and beautiful boutiques as you go. You must stop off and visit the Mattei buildings, creators of the famous Cap Corse aperitif. Other sights to see, this time of a more spiritual nature, are to be found in the churches that sprang up all over the town during the 17th and 18th centuries. The church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Corsica’s largest church, and the churches of Sainte-Marie and the Chappelle Sainte Croix will not fail to amaze you with their ornate Baroque interiors.

If you are tempted to go for a swim, there are beaches not far from the entrance to the town. Pebble beaches to the north, sandy beaches to the south with the superb Mariana beach that borders the ornithological reserve of the Pond of Biguglia. Make the most of a trip there to explore the cathedral church of Canonica, a masterpiece of Roman art.

Bastia paves the way to the Port of Nebbio and Saint-Florent on the west coast. Set in the dip of the gulf that bears the same name, this fishing port is a very fashionable place to visit. With a lively nightlife around the famous marina where celebrities enjoy playing a game of pétanque, and many café terraces where you will enjoy stopping to watch the world go by. Wander at leisure through the old town, explore the citadel, a stunning monument from the Genoese period, and also the beautiful Roman church of Santa-Maria Assunta, before sipping an aperitif in the Place des Portes.

Saint-Florent is the starting point of the beach path that stretches the length of the Agriates coast, 40 km of which is protected by the Conservatoire du Littoral. It is an amazing universe of stony scrub-covered hills punctuated by torrents. A land of wind and sun where the only traces of human life are found in the “pagliaghji” that provide shelter for shepherds and their sheep. In the spring, the fragrance of the maquis is at its finest on the edge of the beaches of Roya, Lodo and Saleccia that are great to cross on foot, horseback or bicycle.

In Corsica, even the old stones have a soul

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Corsica’s uniqueness – quite apart from the fact that it is an island that is unique to the Mediterranean – also stems from its heritage. Everywhere you go, you will see a chapel, a bridge, a tower, or something of interest to explore. From pre-history you can see the remains of watchtowers from the mysterious civilization known as the “civilization toréenne” as well as hundreds of menhir statues, including the famous Filitosa statues with their enigmatic sculptured faces. This was followed by the Greek and Roman periods. A fantastic collection of artefacts is on display in the Museum of Aléria. However, these ancient colonists left other, far more succulent memories of their time on Corsica, in the form of vineyard cultivation and oyster farming. In the Middle Ages, a large number of Roman chapels and churches with simple lines were built in the villages of Castagniccia, Nebbio and Balagne. The 17th and 18th centuries saw the emergence of churches built in the Baroque style and the richness of their interior decoration will amaze you. Corsica’s turbulent history can be seen through the fortification and citadels of its towns and its Genoese watchtowers dotted along the coastline. With a rich heritage of monuments, Corsica is also a wealth of culture, craft and living traditions among which gastronomy plays a significant part. With prisuttu, delicious finely-cut ham made from semi-wild pigs that feed on acorns and chestnuts, figatelli, liver sausages and coppa à base d’échine, Italian charcuterie based on pork ribs. Chestnut pulenta (with a flour base) will accompany your wild-boar stew and as regards cheese, enjoy tasting brocciu, a locally produced goat and sheep’s cheese: all authentic and generous cooking. By the sea, you can enjoy crawfish, fish, and aziminu a Corsican fish-based soup. 8 AOCs (guarantee of origin) compete to produce wine that is both aromatic and full of flavour. Do not hesitate to call in to see the wine cellars. The winegrowers themselves will be delighted to let you taste their products. “A saluta” – “Cheers”!

Corsica is also an island where people know how to party. Each village, and there are more than 300, celebrates its patron saint each year. During such celebrations the profane meets the religious with fairs, music, singing, dancing and cinema festivals, and sporting events all year round. And at night, when the “paghjelles” begin – traditional songs sung by three people, it is the Corsican soul, proud and passionate that you will hear sing out.

Explore the mountains in the morning and head to the beach in the afternoon

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If you like mountains, you will love Corsica. It is the most mountainous island in the Mediterranean with more than 100 peaks over 2000 metres high. Everywhere you look you will see magnificent landscapes in a protected setting. The mountains make up the heart of Corsica and provide the setting for island traditions and even the very identity of the islanders themselves. As you walk about, you will discover that Corsican hospitality is far from a myth. In this abundance of nature, water is never far away. With its thermal springs, spectacular waterfalls, natural pools, rivers full of fish, mountain lakes, Corsica is a veritable water tower where you will enjoy taking time to recharge your batteries. For lovers of sport, canyoning is practised from mid-April to November, with canoeing and kayaking and rafting available from February to the end of May.

If your preferred element is air, why not take the opportunity to explore Corsica by paraglider. From Cap Corse to Nebbio, via Castagniccia, Niolo and Balagne, it is sure to take your breath away. Another way to explore the heights is by climbing. Beginners must be encouraged to join in. Professional instructors are on hand to help you explore the most beautiful areas and will enjoy sharing their passion for the island with you. Why not come and enjoy a snow weekend in Corsica? Far from the crowded slopes of the Alps, you will discover the exhilaration of being out in the heart of nature. Families will enjoy cross country skiing on the Cuscione Plateau and alpine skiing and surf skiing at Ghisoni, Bastelica and Vergio, with superb snow-shoe walks on the peaks and the veritable sporting adventure of the Haute Route à Ski (a long ski route): all snow activities can be practised until April. With landscapes that will take your breath away, just one hour away by car spring is already emerging on the coast.

Come to the beach! - Yes, but which one?

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Crystal clear waters, vast beaches of powder sand, small isolated coves and wild cliffs populated with sea eagles: Corsica offers a range of marine landscapes that are unique to the Mediterranean. With over one thousand kilometres of coastline, the island is a succession of fabulous places to swim, fish, dive or simply walk. To the northwest of the island, the Agriates beaches that you can reach through the maquis are some of the wildest beaches on the island. Further to the south, around the Rousse Isle, the Balagne beaches have vibrantly coloured rocks that rise out of turquoise waters. In the Golfe de Porto, there are large and small beaches for you to enjoy in a protected natural setting, and the magnificent landscapes of the Calanches will amaze you. Then between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio, fabulous beaches stretch over kilometres, punctuated here and there by coves. Further to the north and up to Solenzara, the Côte des Nacres (mother-ofpearl coast) has sandy coves that are bathed in emerald green waters. Even at the height of summer it is not difficult to find a quiet little cove where you will feel like Robinson Crusoe. You are sure to be surprised by the temperature of the waters.

Even in October swimming in the sea is still common where the water can be up to 20°! Corsica’s charm continues under water, with anemones, gorgonians and coral that light up the seabed with an array of colours. Corsica is a dream place to learn to dive. Fishes abound everywhere you look with scorpion fish, red mullet, sea bass, gilt-head bream all of which will delight fishing enthusiasts. Not to forget the sea urchins that will form part of memorable meals during the winter until the start of spring. Sea kayaking, jet-skiing, water skiing, harpoon fishing, fun-boarding and even surfing – you will have plenty of opportunity to practise your favourite sport in an exceptional setting. As sailing enthusiasts will tell you, nothing beats a tour round Corsica by boat for an unforgettable cruise. That goes for you too; as soon as you discover the shores of Corsica, you will only want to do one thing and that is weigh anchor.

On foot, by mountain bike or on horseback

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Walking on Corsica is the best way to explore the true Corsica. Wonder at the fortified granite houses and shepherds’ dry-stone shelters, bathe in the pure water pools that have formed in the rocks from waterfalls, and enjoy the magnificent landscapes in the forests where you will perhaps come across one of the island’s semi-wild pigs or catch a glimpse of the bearded vulture or the moufflon.

Everywhere you go the many hiking trails take you right to the heart of the real Corsica. The most well known long-distance trail is the GR 20 (longdistance hiking route) that takes you across the upper mountains, from Calenzana (in the Calvi region) to Conca (in the Porto- Vecchio region). This difficult path is one of the most beautiful in the world. For easier routes, take the “Mare e Monti Nord” between Cargèse and Calenzala, and the “Mare e Monti Sud”, from Porticcio to Propriano. Lastly, three long-distance routes link the two coasts, one of which, the “Mare a Mare Sud”, is passable all year round. All along the route you will find a shepherd or villager who will show you a spring where you can stop to drink, and even the route of the old Genoese bridge. Accessible to all, country tracks will take you to the Alta-Rocca, close to the fabulous Bavella peaks. In the Bozio area your walk will take you to explore ancient Roman chapels decorated with frescos. The Niolo area is a paradise for mountain climbers and offers easy looped walks that will take you deep into the breathtaking pine forests. If you prefer mountain biking, you will also not be disappointed. Sporting circuits and loops that are perfect for family outings, with hundreds of forest paths, walking routes and short routes are open all year. Lastly if you like horse riding, you will enjoy Corsica. Almost 2000 km of tracks are open to riders and will take you to areas and villages that cannot be reached by road. So, saddle up!

The fragrance of the herb-scented Maquis

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Corsica is nothing like the image we have of a Mediterranean island. In fact, no other Mediterranean island has Corsica’s lushness. With the green of the chestnut trees of Castagniccia, the green of the rustling bushes along the paths of the maquis (scrubland), the verdant mountain pastures that are at their most beautiful during the summer, the green of the vast forests of indigenous pine trees that are hundreds of years old and that stand out against the Aïtone sky, the emerald patches of the mountain lakes, the silvery green Nebbio olive groves, the transparency of the waterfalls and pools of Restonica, and the green lines of the Patrimonio vineyard in the spring. With more than 2000 plant species, Corsica will dazzle you with colour. What is more, the Regional Nature Park of Corsica covers more than two thirds of the island. Five nature reserves protect some unique flora and fauna with the Cerbicale Isles that provide a sanctuary for crested cormorants, the Lavezzi Isles where 68 species of fish have been recorded, the Finocchiarola and Scandola Isles that are France’s leading land and sea reserve, and the Biguglia Pond where 127 species of aquatic birds nest. In the spring everything is in bloom and the maquis is at its most fragrant, and autumn is also a delight when the chestnut harvest is celebrated in the villages perched on the tops, making Corsica a delight to explore whatever the season.

Out to sea around Corsica

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Expeditions out to sea are organised in every port – a marvellous opportunity to explore, in conditions of totalcomfort and safety, otherwise inaccessible protected sites and fabulous nature reserves. A breathtakingly beautiful experience.

Surfing in Corsica

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Each year, top fun-board specialists come to Corsica to take part in world-class competitions. If you are a surfsport addict, this is the place to be: fun-board, jet-ski, surfing, wake-board, fly-surf, plus ample opportunity to practise freeriding, slaloms or surf-riding in a totally protected environment. Well exposed to the swell and unencumbered by tides, the "spots" in Corsica provide excellent waves all day long, all year round. Give full reign to your passion! Here, the sea is a never-ending source of sport and fun as and when you like it – on your own or as part of a group. The choice is yours: accompanied excursions in jet-ski, catamaran or sailing kayak to explore the countless creeks along the coast.

Diving in Corsica

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If you haven’t already done so, make haste to equip yourself with mask and snorkel, for Corsica is a veritable paradise for all underwater diving enthusiasts: clear water perfect for diving throughout the year, submarine plant life and fauna of dazzling beauty and, easily accessible for the diver with flippers, breathtaking sites and spectacular wrecks. The Corsican depths lend themselves to all types of diving: exploration, flipper excursions, diving without an aqualung and underwater hunting. If you are new to diving you could hardly wish for better conditions, so plunge into the water for a holiday experience you are unlikely to forget! Some thirty clubs are ready to initiate you into the sport and help you discover.

Corsica water sports

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The best way to discover Corsica and the unmatched splendour of its Mediterranean landscapes is from the sea. Its 1047 km of coastline offers an extraordinary diversity of sites: a seemingly endless succession of typical little fishing ports, isolated creeks, lively marinas, cliffs, calanques (deep rocky inlets) and vast beaches of fine sand. The crystal-clear water is an irresistible invitation to sample the pleasures of the sea, while the visitor venturing inland will be greeted with superb scenery and a host of treasures.
Corsica is an island of winds. The westerly libecciu blows over the entire island while the mistral (north-west) tends to be confined to the west coast; the south-easterly sirocco warms the coastal areas, and the levant (east wind) sweeps over the eastern shoreline. As for the tramontane, this north wind is a particular feature of the winter months. With such a varied wind system, plus the existence of 4 navigation basins (Calvi-Bastia, Bastia-Solenzara, Solenzara-Ajaccio, Ajaccio-Calvi), you can be sure to find optimum sailing conditions. In spring, you can already count on summer weather with temperatures of 25°C. In summer itself, those in search of peace and quiet will be able to choose from a wealth of deserted creeks. The winds are moderate with pleasant warm breezes. The sea is still warm in autumn, and with the summer fever now a distant memory, you can look forward to an even warmer welcome in the seaside resorts and marinas.
Corsica is no more than 100 nautical miles from the French Riviera and 60 from Tuscany – ideal for a day outing. And then, of course, there is the unrivalled thrill of discovering the island from the sea. But you can also hire a boat on the spot and navigate on the island’s different basins. Whatever your preference – yacht or motorboat, with or without skipper – you can be sure to find just what you are looking for. If you are planning to sail round the island, it is best to allow about two weeks. As for stopover points, you can choose between picturesque little fishing ports and safe anchorages in unspoilt creeks facing the beaches of your dreams. And if you fancy having dinner in an authentic Corsican inn, exploring the hinterland or simply soaking up the warm atmosphere of the Mediterranean, you can always make fast in a marina for the night.
With its sharply indented coastline, snug little bays, favourable wind systems and generous sunshine, Corsica is an ideal destination for all those with a keen interest in light sailing. On the menu: discovering marine environments with introduction to dinghy, catamaran, windsurfing board and sailing kayak. Whatever your degree of proficiency and wherever you are in the island, you will find a water sports centre which is just right for you – with the special bonus of unforgettable scenery!

Corsica mountains

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Corsica is mountainous and its highest point is Monte Cintu at 2710 metres. It has twenty other mountains of over two thousand metres and the average altitude is 560m. Corsica has the highest mountains and the most rivers of any Mediterranean island. The mountains run roughly north west to south east and cut the island in two. The east was traditionally known as 'over here' (en deçà des monts, or in Corsican, da monte in qua) or the 'land of the commons' and the west as 'over there' (au delà des monts, or in Corsican, da monte indà) or 'the land of the lords'. There was indeed, no carriage road between the two main towns of Bastia in the north and Ajaccio in the south before the C19. A recent anthropological study shows a certain genetic differentiation between north and south, which follows the linguistic subdivision differentiation. This is quite apart from the differentiation from the populations of France and Tuscany, which have had such political and cultural influences on Corsica.
It is no wonder that the island is often known as the Mountain in the Sea. All the main mountain massifs are within the Regional Park (Parc Naturel Régional de la Corse). The four highest massifs are: Cinto - very uneven and broken, granitic (largely volcanic rhyolites) with the highest mountain of Corsica Monte Cinto at 2 710m, as well as several above 2 500m; Retondo - granite and also uneven, with several glacial lakes and Monte Retondo itself is 2 625m; Renoso - less dramatic, mainly granitic and Monte Renoso is 2 357m; Incudine-Bavella, mostly granite also, but with limestone surfacing in some parts, some of the relief is soft and sometimes very jagged like the amazing Aiguilles (Needles) de Bavella and its highest peak is the Incudine at 2 136m.
The Office National des Forêts offers guided walks of between two and a half and three hours in the Forests of Aitone and Bonifatu (in the north) and Chiavari and Bavella (in the south) every Thursday in July & August at 7 euros per person (info from 04 95 23 78 21) and the ONF and the Chemins de Fer Corses offer a combined train and walk in the Forest of Vizzavona (info from stations). While the ONF continues to be the biggest forest operator, the actual ownership of the state forests has been transferred to the CTC (regional government). One of the biggest assets is the Lariccio Pine that covers 45 thousand hectares (between 1000 and 1500 metres). This species is particularly resistent and has been extensive used as the basis for re-aforestation especially in Great Britain and Italy. The importance of this resource has led to the EU declaring it as 'priority' in its Habitat Directive and is supported by the 'Life' programme a so-called keystone species.

touristic routes

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The hiker is the one who will no doubt return from Corsica with the most powerful memories..
By taking the ancestral paths, now laid out by the teams of the Regional Natural country Park, they will discover both the exhilaration of physical performance and the amazement and enchantment of the soul.

No monotonous scenery for the hiker! On the contrary : The friend of the true nature lover, each region will reveal its personality and its ancient secrets and at the same time its colors, its scents, its shadows, its rustles...

Choice of trails:

GR 20
The expert trail, GR 20, is not only one of the most famous of Corsica, but also one of the most difficult of all Europe. The mythical GR 20 goes trough high mountain, from Calenzana to Conca.
It is practicable from mid-June to the end of October. Nevertheless it requires good physical condition and a solid knowledge of the mountain environment. Allow a walk of about fifteen days and be aware that camping is forbidden on the route. On the other hand, accomodation is provided in refuges.
Mare e Monti
The path of "Mare e Monti" which is rather sporting, is practicable throughout the year. Without any important difficulties, note yet that during summer its course extremely tiresome because of the heat.While about ten days, you could spend privileged and intense moments, notably during spring and autumn.
Mare a Mare
The itinerary "Mare a Mare" is, as for it, composed of three paths. Mare a Mare Sud Five days of walk, from Porto-Vecchio to Propriano. Ideal for the beginners, this way is not too hot in summer and a little snowed up on winter. Mare a Mare Nord Practicable from April to November, it does not present any difficulty. It can be done in twelve days, from Moriani to Cargese, by going through Corte. Mare a Mare Centre It, for its part, is made in a good week and does not entail any particular danger. Nevertheless it is preferable to run it during the months of April to November, because of certain passages which are at an altitude of 1500 metres. This last path have moreover the originality to possibly be crossed on skis, taking in large part the GR20 course.

accommodation

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leisure

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events

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partner links

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Welcome to Corsica

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Tourism plays a major role in the Corsican economy. The island's pleasant climate, beautiful mountains and breathtaking coastlines make it a popular destination among the French and other Western Europeans. However, the island has not had the same level of intensive development as other parts of the Mediterranean and is thus relatively unspoiled. Tourism is particularly concentrated in the area around Porto Vecchio and Bonifacio in the south of the island and Calvi in the northwest.
Nearly two million visitors descend on the island annually (two thirds of them in July and August), yet purpose-built resorts are few and far between, while high-rise blocks remain outnumbered by extravagant Baroque churches and old fortified houses built to protect families formerly embroiled in vendettas. Overlooked by Corsica’s trademark seventeenth-century watchtowers, long stretches of the shore remain backed by unbroken maquis, while forests of holm oak, chestnut trees and magnificent Laricio pines carpet the interior valleys, dotted with pretty stone villages. "Provence without the Brits" is how rural Corsica is often described in holiday brochures, but the gloss fails to convey the island’s distinctive grandeur: the wildness of its uplands, the vivid atmosphere of its remote settlements, and arresting emptiness of its valleys and woodlands, where wild boar are still more numerous than people.
The island has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The natural vegetation is Mediterranean forests, woodlands, and shrubs. The coastal lowlands are part of the Tyrrhenian-Adriatic sclerophyllous and mixed forests ecoregion, in which forests and woodlands of evergreen sclerophyll oaks predominate, chiefly Holm Oak (Quercus ilex) and Cork Oak (Quercus suber). The mountains are cooler and wetter, and home to the Corsican montane broadleaf and mixed forests ecoregion, which supports diverse forests of oak, pine, and broadleaf deciduous trees, with vegetation more typical of northern Europe on the slopes of the highest peaks.
Two hundred years of French rule have had limited tangible effect on Corsica, an island where Baroque churches, Genoese fortresses, fervent Catholic rituals and an indigenous language saturated with Tuscan influences show a more profound affinity with neighbouring Italy. During the long era of Italian supremacy the northeast and southwest of Corsica formed two provinces known as Diqua dei monti – "this side of the mountains" – and Dila dei monti, the uncontrollable "side beyond". Today the French départements of Haute-Corse and Corse du Sud roughly coincide with these territories, and remain quite different in feel.